International Affairs Certificate — 100% Online
The issues of today’s world are complex and incredibly nuanced. Leaders rely on experts who can analyze global issues and effectively communicate recommendations, allowing them to make informed decisions.
Deepen your knowledge of the inner workings of policy on the global stage through this 100% online certificate program from Penn State. The 12-credit Graduate Certificate in International Affairs can give you the skills to address the central tenets of diplomacy and international relations. Learn how governments gather information, analyze reports, and weigh the impact of intelligence findings on the actions of policymakers.
Why Earn your Penn State International Affairs Certificate Online?
As a student in this program, you will have the opportunity to enroll in courses that were developed by highly regarded faculty from Penn State’s School of International Affairs. Classes are 100% online and asynchronous, which means you will be able to fit your Penn State education around whatever life throws at you.
As an online learner, you will have the full resources of Penn State at your fingertips wherever you may be. Student support services such as technical support, career counseling, a nationally recognized library, and advising are available for you to utilize throughout your education.
And when you complete your certificate program, you will become part of a proud network of more than 700,000 alumni. You can also choose to join the Penn State Alumni Association, the largest dues-paying alumni association in the world, with chapters offering social and networking events in most metropolitan areas.
Your Online International Affairs Curriculum
The international affairs certificate program will cover topics such as foundations of diplomacy and international relations, the role of intelligence in international relations, weapons of mass destruction and international security, and current policy challenges to international affairs. With current course offerings, it is possible to complete this graduate certificate over the course of one year. You will also have opportunities to engage with other students in the program, helping you to grow a network of peers who share your professional interests.
Career Opportunities for Graduates
As a graduate of this program, you can build a career in areas such as international relations, public policy, intelligence, defense policy, military affairs, counterterrorism, diplomacy, international organizations, law enforcement, international business, international law, international education, economic development, international environmental policy, and international energy policy. Some positions for which you may be qualified include:
- research analyst
- research associate
- program associate
- program coordinator
- communications coordinator
- program officer
- foreign service officer
- intelligence analyst
- risk analyst
- intelligence officer
- project associate
- data analyst
Information for Military and Veterans
Are you a member of the military, a veteran, or a military spouse? Please visit our military website for additional information regarding financial aid, transfer credits, or application instructions.
Note: This program is under review for GI Bill® eligibility, and you may experience delays attempting to use GI Bill benefits toward this program until it has been officially approved.
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.
